Hydroalcoholic extract of Anethum graveolens L. attenuates olanzapine-induced metabolic changes and locomotor activity in rats

Abstract

Background: Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is widely associated with metabolic side effects such as excessive weight gain, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance. This study investigates the effect of Anethum graveolens L. (AG) extract on weight gain, food intake, and glucose and lipid metabolism in rats with olanzapine-induced weight gain. Materials and Methods: The AG extract was prepared by macerating the coarse plant powder with 70% ethanol for seven days, followed by percolation of the marc. The combined filtrates were concentrated under reduced pressure. A total of five groups were used, each comprising six animals. Three doses of the AG extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) were co-administered with olanzapine (2 mg/kg, i.p.) for 21 days. Body weight and food intake were recorded every three days, while locomotor activity was assessed weekly. After 21 days of treatment, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and lipid profile estimation were performed. Results: Co-treatment with the hydroalcoholic extract of AG significantly reversed olanzapine-induced weight gain and hyperphagia. Moreover, the treatment improved pancreatic β-cell function, as well as glucose and lipid metabolism. These findings suggest that AG extract mitigates the metabolic disturbances induced by olanzapine through the modulation of pancreatic function and lipid homeostasis. Conclusion: AG extract effectively mitigated olanzapine-induced metabolic alterations, suggesting its potential as a natural adjunct for managing antipsychotic-associated metabolic side effects.